Questions about "Juzek" cellos

[frater]

I know "John Juzek" instruments are a bit of a tired subject here but I would like to hear any input from you guys on this.

 

I've read old Juzek threads here and I know the basic story behind Metropolitan Music Co. What I'm curious about is if there are any "eras" of Juzek instruments where we know what they were selling. 

 

It seems this instrument was not originally labeled as a Juzek and the "Jusec" label was added some time after the purchase but before the advent of google, hence the misspelling. I recently had the thought that whoever added the second label may have been wrong or just guessing.

 

Any information on the Metropolitan Music Co or thoughts on this instrument are greatly appreciated. I can supply any other pictures that are needed.

 

[Wood Butcher]

Are the flames on the back and ribs painted on? Looks markedly different to the interior of the back.

[frater]

4 minutes ago, Wood Butcher said:

Are the flames on the back and ribs painted on? Looks markedly different to the interior of the back.

Yes I believe they are. Is this uncommon for copy instruments? Is it akin to antiquing for a specific aesthetic or is it something to be avoided?

Edited March 29 by frater

[deans]

Doesnt look like any MM Juzek to me. Although they seem to have imported from a variety of places. I agree the back appears to have painted flames. Looks like a servicable instrument at least.

[Wood Butcher]

5 hours ago, frater said:

Yes I believe they are. Is this uncommon for copy instruments? Is it akin to antiquing for a specific aesthetic or is it something to be avoided?

It is done to save money. Highly figured wood is very expensive, so in some workshops, they painted on the flames, to make things look better than they are. 

[Richf]

 Very unusual to see painted flames on the interior side, too.

[Wood Butcher]

2 hours ago, Richf said:

 Very unusual to see painted flames on the interior side, too.

What?
The inside of the back is lightly flamed, and these are real. The exterior of the back and ribs is a different width of flame, angle, and looking very exaggerated. All this suggests they are painted, or simulated in some other way.

[Strad O Various Jr.]

1 hour ago, Wood Butcher said:

What?
The inside of the back is lightly flamed, and these are real. The exterior of the back and ribs is a different width of flame, angle, and looking very exaggerated. All this suggests they are painted, or simulated in some other way.

wrong on both counts, the width of the flame and the angle is the same inside as out